This document provides an overview of argumentative writing. It defines an argument as an author's attempt to prove their claim is true by using a series of related statements and evidence to convince the reader. The key components of a strong argument are outlined as a clearly stated claim, facts and evidence supporting the claim, and a conclusion that supports the claim. Common misconceptions students have about arguments are discussed, such as thinking an argument is just an opinion or a fight. Graphic organizers, rubrics, and samples are provided to help teach argumentative writing.

1. Argumentative WritingWriting an argument with supportive claims with clear reasons and relevant evidence. 2011D. BurkeyH. Jones

2. What is it?An author’s attempt to prove that their claim is true and to convince the reader to adopt the same viewpoint by using a series of related statements.

3. Common Core Argumentative Vs.Persuasive Argument the Old WayTake five minutes and read the article.Compare and contrast the two types of writing with colleagues.

4. Argumentative Writing Snapshot

5. Know the difference:Author’s claim – the author’s thesis or assertion (what the author is trying to prove)Author’s Argument – a series of related statements which represent an attempt to support the author’s claim.

6. Components of a Strong ArgumentClearly Stated ClaimDistinguished counter claim (7th and 8th grade only)Facts and evidence supporting the claimFacts and evidence supporting the counter claim (8th grade only)Conclusion supporting the claim

7. Characteristics of a Strong ArgumentStrategically OrganizedFormal StylePrecise Word ChoicesStandard Conventions

8. Student misconceptions about argumentative writingStudents think that an argument is a fight and that they must “spar” with the text.Students take an inflexible position without recognizing the nuances of the argument.Students think an argument is just an opinion.Students think emotions must be involved.Students think an argument should be five paragraphs.

9. Graphic Organizers for Argumentative Writing

10. Rubrics

11. Sample Prompts for Argumentative WritingShould the Howard County Public School System stop selling junk food in the cafeteria?The current driving age in MD is 15 years and 9 months. Should the driving age in MD be raised to 17 years?Currently the Howard County Public School system runs on a traditional ten-month school calendar. Should the HCPSS change to a year-round school calendar?

12. Anchor PapersRead the anchor paper and annotations for your grade level.Use the rubric to determine the anchor paper’s score for the first four categories.Partner with someone from your grade level and discuss why you chose those scores.

13. Sample Assignment MenuEssayPolitical CartoonBusiness LetterFriendly LetterEditorialWeb PageBrochureAdvertisementCritiqueSpeech

14. Resources Provided by HCPSShttp://transitiontocommoncore.hcpss.wikispaces.net/http://transitiontocommoncore.hcpss.wikispaces.net/English+Language+Arts